2009 GMC Yukon Denali Hybrid

The Generals truck brand gets an upscale tree-hugger.

GMC has both ends of the price spectrum covered at the New York auto show, as it unveiled its least expensive and most fuel-efficient vehicle—the 2010 GMC Terrain crossover—as well as the new 2009 Yukon Denali hybrid, the range-topping model in the truck brand’s lineup. While a hybrid version of the Yukon SUV is nothing new, this is the first time the green giant will be offered in luxurious Denali trim.

Similar to General Motors’ other full-size, two-mode hybrids from Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac, a 6.0-liter V-8 equipped with various fuel-saving technologies does the brunt of the work in the Denali, producing 332 hp and 367 lb-ft of torque. But it’s the two electric motors inside the two-mode transmission that give this beast its hybrid moniker. The result, according to the EPA, is up to 21 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway—improvements of 9 and 3 mpg, respectively, over a standard Yukon Denali with four-wheel drive. The full-size SUV also can tow up to 5800 pounds and is available with either two- or four-wheel drive. Unlike the other big hybrid SUVs, though, the Denali is the first to come equipped with GM’s MagnaRide suspension system—the high-tech shock absorbers, which employ magnetorheological fluid for lightning-quick dampening adjustments and are shared with the standard Cadillac Escalade.

But it’s the interior and exterior that makes the Yukon Denali Hybrid stand apart from versions without electrical assistance. Outside you’ll find hybrid emblems galore and unique 22-inch chrome wheels that forego low-rolling-resistance rubber for style, while the inside sports standard 12-way adjustable heated and cooled front seats, a navigation system complete with a rearview camera, and a Bose surround-sound system. A sunroof, rear-seat entertainment system, and blind-spot alert mirrors are the only three options available.

Hitting showrooms in May, the hybrid will undercut the $73,475 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid, but will still fetch a hefty premium over the regular Denali. Prices start at $59,185 for rear-wheel drive models and $62,030 with four-wheel drive—a price-hike of $5145 to $8100 over the standard Denali—although GM says buyers may be eligible for a $2200 tax credit for going green. However, at that price, if you really need to tow but also want to save the planet, may we suggest getting a non-hybrid Sierra pickup and a Toyota Prius?